Ndume resumes, Senate ignores lawmaker’s request

Lawmaker representing Borno South Senatorial District, Senator Ali Ndume, resumed on Wednesday from his six-month suspension by the Senate.

Ndume, at the plenary on Wednesday, raised a point of order to speak on the North East Development Commission and the late Senator Isiaka Adeleke.

He said, “You know that I have been away for seven and a half months and today, we all know that in my absence we lost distinguished Senator Isiaka Adeleke who was sitting right behind me and I used to call him my landlord. I didn’t have the opportunity to pay my tribute. I want to appeal to this Senate to, again, stand for a minute silence and pray for the repose of his soul.

“Secondly, also in my absence, the much desired bill for the establishment of the North East Development Commission sponsored by myself and distinguished Senator Kabiru Gaya was signed into law by Mr. President.

“Also in my absence, this Senate magnanimously and unanimously sponsored a bill for the adequate funding of that commission. In view of that, I want to thank everybody who contributed in one way or the other. But most importantly, I want the house to observe a minute silence in honour of our brother, Isiaka Adeleke.”

In his remark, President of the Senate, Bukola Saraki, said, “Your point of order is noted,” asking the Majority Leader, Senator Ahmad Lawan, to proceed with next item on the Order Paper.